McNair Scholars Program
University of Nevada, Reno
Choosing a Mentor – Checklist
Questions
Prospect # 1
Yes
Does the professor have the time needed to take
you on as a research scholar?
Is his/her demeanor (personality, body language,
etc.) appealing and comfortable for your research
interest?
Are their ongoing research activities in the area of
your research interest?
Have former undergraduate and graduate students
of the professor received proper guidance, had
good experiences, and completed their projects in
a timely manner?
Is the professor so busy with ongoing research
grants/projects that he/she may not have sufficient
time for adequate guidance of your research
project?
Does the professor supervise appropriate space and
laboratory equipment for you to have adequate
space and equipment?
Does the professor anticipate being at the
university for the entire time of your project?
Will the professor guide you through the
completion of the research article and another
professional presentation of the research results?
Does the professor exhibit the ability to
communicate openly, clearly, and effectively?
Will the professor help provide access to articles,
books, etc. that will aid the development of the
literature review?
Among the faculty and university community, is
the professor respected for his/her research,
writing, and publications?
No
Prospect # 2
Yes
No
Prospect # 3
Yes
No